Fantasy books have the power to transport readers into worlds filled with magic, adventure, and unforgettable characters. Whether you enjoy epic sagas, fast-paced adventures, or stories full of mythical creatures, there’s a book for every kind of fantasy lover. This list includes classic masterpieces, modern favorites, and hidden gems that will spark your imagination. Get ready to explore enchanted lands, battle dark forces, and embark on epic journeys with these must-read fantasy books.
1. The Lord of the Rings – J.R.R. Tolkien
One of the most influential fantasy series of all time, The Lord of the Rings follows Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the One Ring and defeat the dark lord Sauron. Along the way, he is joined by an unforgettable cast of characters, including Gandalf, Aragorn, and Samwise Gamgee. This epic trilogy is filled with rich world-building, deep lore, and timeless themes of courage, friendship, and sacrifice.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire – George R.R. Martin
This sprawling fantasy series, beginning with A Game of Thrones, is known for its intricate political intrigue, morally complex characters, and shocking twists. Set in the land of Westeros, noble families fight for control of the Iron Throne while an ancient supernatural threat looms beyond the Wall. Martin’s world is brutal, unpredictable, and full of unforgettable moments.
3. The Name of the Wind – Patrick Rothfuss
Told as a story within a story, this novel follows Kvothe, a gifted young man who grows up to become a legendary figure. From his early struggles as a street orphan to his time at a magical university, Kvothe’s journey is both heartbreaking and thrilling. Rothfuss’s lyrical prose and immersive storytelling make this one of the most beloved modern fantasy books.
4. The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien
A charming adventure that serves as a prelude to The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit follows Bilbo Baggins as he is reluctantly swept into a quest to reclaim a stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, he encounters trolls, goblins, and the infamous Gollum. This timeless tale of bravery and discovery is a must-read for any fantasy lover.
5. Mistborn: The Final Empire – Brandon Sanderson
In a world where a dark ruler has reigned for a thousand years, a small rebellion rises against the odds. Vin, a street thief, discovers she has incredible magical abilities and joins a crew determined to overthrow the empire. This book introduces a unique magic system based on metals and delivers a thrilling mix of heists, battles, and political intrigue.
6. The Lies of Locke Lamora – Scott Lynch
A fast-paced, witty fantasy about a group of thieves known as the Gentlemen Bastards, led by the cunning Locke Lamora. The story takes place in the city of Camorr, a Venice-like setting full of crime, deception, and powerful adversaries. Lynch’s writing is packed with humor, intricate plots, and high-stakes action.
7. The Priory of the Orange Tree – Samantha Shannon
A feminist high fantasy novel featuring dragons, political intrigue, and a sprawling world inspired by both Western and Eastern mythology. The story follows a divided world on the brink of war, where a queen must protect her kingdom and a secretive dragon-riding warrior seeks to uncover ancient truths. This standalone epic is perfect for fans of rich world-building and strong female characters.
8. The Wheel of Time – Robert Jordan
This massive fantasy series spans fourteen books, beginning with The Eye of the World. It follows a group of young villagers who become entangled in a battle against the Dark One. With intricate world-building, complex magic, and a vast cast of characters, The Wheel of Time is a cornerstone of epic fantasy.
9. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell – Susanna Clarke
A historical fantasy set in an alternate version of 19th-century England where magic is real but nearly forgotten. Two rival magicians, the scholarly Mr. Norrell and the charismatic Jonathan Strange, seek to restore England’s magical heritage. This novel is filled with rich prose, footnotes detailing an intricate magical history, and a deep sense of mystery.
10. The Broken Empire Trilogy – Mark Lawrence
Starting with Prince of Thorns, this dark and gritty fantasy series follows Jorg Ancrath, a ruthless antihero with a troubled past. Driven by revenge, Jorg navigates a brutal world filled with magic, war, and betrayal. Lawrence’s storytelling is sharp, intense, and emotionally gripping.
11. The Stormlight Archive – Brandon Sanderson
A grand epic fantasy series starting with The Way of Kings, featuring vast world-building, deep lore, and an intricate magic system. The story follows multiple characters, including a soldier-turned-slave, a brilliant scholar, and a king struggling to unite his fractured kingdom. Sanderson’s storytelling is full of action, mystery, and unforgettable moments.
12. American Gods – Neil Gaiman
A blend of fantasy and mythology, American Gods follows Shadow Moon as he becomes involved in a war between the old gods of mythology and the new gods of technology and media. Gaiman’s unique storytelling weaves together folklore, mystery, and modern themes in a thought-provoking way.
13. The Once and Future King – T.H. White
A retelling of the Arthurian legend that follows King Arthur from his childhood as the boy “Wart” to his rule over Camelot. This novel explores themes of chivalry, leadership, and destiny with humor and heart. White’s version of the legend remains one of the most beloved.
14. The Poppy War – R.F. Kuang
A historical fantasy inspired by 20th-century Chinese history and mythology. The story follows Rin, a war orphan who earns a place at an elite military academy, only to discover she possesses immense magical power. As war looms, Rin must navigate political intrigue and brutal battles.
15. The Shadow of the Wind – Carlos Ruiz Zafón
A literary fantasy set in post-war Barcelona, where a young boy discovers a mysterious book that leads him into a world of hidden secrets and danger. This novel blends mystery, romance, and gothic elements into an unforgettable story.
16. His Dark Materials – Philip Pullman
Beginning with The Golden Compass, this series follows Lyra Belacqua as she embarks on a journey across parallel worlds filled with armored bears, daemons, and secretive organizations. A deep and philosophical fantasy with strong themes of free will and destiny.
17. The Kingkiller Chronicle – Patrick Rothfuss
This series, starting with The Name of the Wind, tells the story of Kvothe, a gifted musician and magician. Rothfuss’s prose is poetic, and the storytelling is immersive and deeply emotional.
18. The Inheritance Trilogy – N.K. Jemisin
Starting with The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, this series follows a young woman who is thrown into a deadly power struggle involving gods and rulers. Jemisin’s world-building is stunning, and her writing is filled with depth and complexity.
19. Stardust – Neil Gaiman
A whimsical fairy-tale fantasy about a young man who crosses into a magical world to retrieve a fallen star. What he finds is an adventure filled with witches, pirates, and unexpected romance. Gaiman’s storytelling is charming and enchanting.
20. Eragon – Christopher Paolini
The start of The Inheritance Cycle, this novel follows a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a battle against an evil empire. A classic coming-of-age fantasy with dragons, magic, and adventure.